Bullying is NEVER OK. Unfortunately, it happens a lot more than it used to – with adults AND kids. Lead the way for your kids by being a great influence on them.
With the start of school nearing, here are seven tips for preventing bullying from psychotherapist and author Diane Lang (author of Creating Balance and Finding Happiness):
1. Have kids volunteer.
Teach your kids respect for themselves and others in order to boost their self-esteem. Every time they help someone else it will raise their self-esteem levels and give them a boost of happiness. It’s also a great way to spend quality time with your kids for free.
2. Be a great role model.
Don’t show aggressive behaviors as a parent to your child, your spouse or to any other kids. You teach kids through your actions.
3. Have an open line of communication with your child.
They need to know you care and that they have someone they can go to. Let them know you will always listen.
4. Be an empathetic listener.
Even if you don’t understand how they are feeling, show you’re trying to imagine it. Really do it, imagine yourself in their shoes.
5. Be an active listener.
Let your kids know you’re actually listening by giving eye contact, nodding to show you’re listening, asking questions and summarizing. Also show you’re listening with your non-verbals and hand gestures. This may be the best way to safeguard a child against bullying.
6. Remind your kids daily that you love them.
7. Most importantly, show your kids you love them.
They are visual learners!
